Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of diols with a special structure which are characterized by formula (I). These diols are substances which, besides two OH groups, contain a C?C double bond so that they are suitable as monomers for the production of polymers. The process comprises hydrolyzing a corresponding cyclic precursor in aqueous medium in the presence of an acid dissolved in that medium, the hydrolysis being accompanied by the elimination of a carbonyl compound, and subsequently neutralizing the acid present in the reaction mixture with a base, the base having a pKb value above 0.18 and preferably above 3.0 and being present in heterogeneous form.

Abstract: The invention provides compounds containing the ring-opening products of ethylenically unsaturated cyclic carbonates for use in preparing hydrogel polymers, as well as methods for their preparation. A preferred method of the invention includes the reaction of nucleophilic compounds containing Si, F, N or O atoms, or combinations thereof, or latent moieties in the form of unsaturated or hydroxylated functional groups, with ethylenically unsaturated glycerol carbonate derivatives. The compounds and hydrogel polymers are useful for the preparation of contact lenses.

Abstract: Disclosed are new compounds having utility in applications, including as reactants and intermediates in for the formation of polymers and polymeric materials especially useful as hydrogels for ophthalmic lenses.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of diols with a special structure which are characterized by formula (I). These diols are substances which, besides two OH groups, contain a C?C double bond so that they are suitable as monomers for the production of polymers. The process comprises hydrolyzing a corresponding cyclic precursor in aqueous medium in the presence of an acid dissolved in that medium, the hydrolysis being accompanied by the elimination of a carbonyl compound, and subsequently neutralizing the acid present in the reaction mixture with a base, the base having a pKb value above 0.18 and preferably above 3.0 and being present in heterogeneous form.